How to Brew Cold Brew Coffee with a Hario Pot
By Code Black Coffee | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the simple steps to make smooth, rich cold brew at home using a Hario Cold Brew Coffee Pot, including the ideal coffee-to-water ratio and brewing time.
Quick answer
To brew cold brew with a Hario pot, use a 1:8 coffee-to-water ratio, steep in the fridge for 8 hours, then serve over ice. The Hario Cold Brew Coffee Pot's built-in strainer makes the process simple and mess-free.
Why a Hario Cold Brew Pot?
The Hario Cold Brew Coffee Pot is designed specifically for cold brewing. Its integrated strainer and compact 1L size make it easy to brew small batches at home without needing separate filters or equipment. The transparent body lets you monitor the extraction, and the airtight lid keeps your brew fresh.
Choosing the Right Coffee and Grind
For the best cold brew, use coarsely ground coffee—similar to breadcrumbs. A fine grind can over-extract and make the brew bitter. Medium or dark roast beans work well because they produce a smoother, less acidic cup. If you're unsure about the grind, ask your roaster to set it for a French press or cold brew.
Adjusting the Strength to Your Taste
The 1:8 ratio is a good starting point, but you can adjust it to suit your preference. For a stronger concentrate, use a 1:5 ratio; for a milder ready-to-drink brew, try 1:10. Remember that a longer steep time also increases strength, so you can fine-tune both variables.
Step-by-Step Cold Brew Instructions
- Add coffee grounds: Place 1 cup (about 100 grams) of coarsely ground coffee into the Hario pot's strainer basket. Check that the mesh is clean and properly seated to avoid grounds escaping. Use a coarse grind to prevent sludge in your final brew.
- Pour water slowly: Slowly pour 4 cups (about 800 ml) of cold or room-temperature water over the grounds in a circular motion to ensure all coffee is saturated. Avoid pouring too fast, which can cause channeling and uneven extraction. Saturate all grounds evenly for a balanced flavor.
- Cap and shake: Secure the lid and give the pot a gentle shake to start the extraction. Make sure the lid is on tight to prevent leaks. A gentle shake helps distribute the coffee and water evenly.
- Refrigerate for 8 hours: Place the pot in the fridge and let it steep for 8 hours. If you prefer a stronger brew, you can extend the steeping time up to 12 hours, but check the flavor after 8 to avoid over-extraction. Set a timer so you don't forget your brew in the fridge.
- Remove the strainer and serve: Take the pot out of the fridge, remove the strainer basket, and discard the spent grounds. Pour the cold brew concentrate over ice, and dilute with water or milk to taste if desired. Store any leftover cold brew in the fridge and consume within 1-2 weeks.
The Hario Cold Brew Coffee Pot at a Glance
- Hario Cold Brew Coffee Pot 1L: The Hario Cold Brew Coffee Pot has a 1L capacity and includes a built-in strainer mesh, making it easy to brew and serve without extra filters. You can brew up to 4 cups of cold brew concentrate at once, and the integrated strainer means you don't need to buy paper filters or use a separate filtering step.
Hario Cold Brew Coffee Pot 1L
